How to Use Your “My Life with Jesus” Devotional Book

Step 1: Decide on a time when you can read the devotional together. This time should be daily, consistent, and not hurried. You might want to observe your household’s natural rhythm before deciding on a time. The devotions are short and can take as little or long of a time as you desire (probably 5-10 minutes for smaller kids, and 10-20 minutes for older ones). Some people might already have a time that is set aside to read stories or talk about their day. Those could be good times to read the devotion together. During a mealtime would also work. Make the time extra special by lighting a candle or giving each other a hug before beginning.

Step 2: Before your first time reading together, prepare! Whoever is leading this time in your household will find the introduction very helpful. It explains the book’s outline and flow and delves deeper into questions and themes that are used throughout the rest of the book. Acquainting yourself with these will make for a richer time together during the reading. You may even want to go back and reference certain things during the devotions.

Step 3: Aim for connection, not perfection. By spending time together daily focusing on scripture and God’s love for us, you are communicating how important it is. You are helping the children in your care (and maybe even yourself) develop a meaningful habit of pausing, reflecting, connecting, and giving thanks to God. Even if the readings don’t go as planned, resist the urge to give into frustration, and focus instead on being present with one another. Presence and acceptance of realties are also good lessons to model! You might find making small notes on how the time together went helpful. If you write on the margins of the devotionals, you’ll be able to read through them again in the future!

The first reading begins on the first day of Advent. This year that is November 28. If you have any questions or just want to talk, please reach out! We hope this can help foster a meaningful time for you and yours.

– Deirdre Arnett, Children’s Director